​Where to Eat in Wilmington, Delaware

If you’re traveling around Delaware, chances are good that you’ll end up in Wilmington. The state’s urban hub boasts both a thriving downtown and a bustling riverfront, where you’ll find some of the best dining in the region! Wilmington restaurants are the place to go to try some of the state’s famed seafood (don’t miss the steamed crabs or the Delaware Bay oysters) and other regional favorites in a casual setting or fine dining that boasts dishes from James Beard-award chefs. Whether you’re traveling for business or exploring with the family, Wilmington has so much to see, eat, drink and do! Here are just a few suggestions:

1. Banks’ Seafood Kitchen and Raw Bar

This riverfront restaurant with an award-winning chef at the helm is a favorite for its extensive seafood options (including a fresh raw bar) and an array of cocktails and wines available by the glass. Make your reservations in advance and expect delicious menu options such as oysters on the half shell and surf and turf.

Photo courtesy of https://www.banksseafoodkitchen.com/

2. Big Fish Grill Riverfront

Looking for a fun atmosphere for Wilmington riverfront dining? Try Big Fish Grill, with its stellar views and nautical-inspired decor. Find budget-friendly specials available at lunchtime and happy hour deals available every weekday. With a sushi menu and kids’ menu to top off the offerings, Big Fish Grill has something for all the seafood lovers, meat lovers and salad lovers in the group!

Photo courtesy of https://bigfishriverfront.com/

3. DE.CO Wilmington

Want lots and lots of dining options, all in one place? This food hall in the historic, Art Deco setting of the Hotel DuPont building, offers plenty to choose from. With eight restaurant installations, plus an atrium bar, you can take a break from shopping and exploring to taste-test some of the city’s best offerings in style and comfort. Vendors offer pizza, chicken and waffles, sushi, pastries, coffee, vegan eats, tacos and more.

Photo courtesy of https://decowilmington.com/

4. Le Cavalier

For upscale dining with international fair, look to the French-inspired Le Cavalier at the historic Hotel DuPont. The dinner menu offers a mix of large and small plates, ranging from butter-coated mussels served alongside a grilled baguette to steak frites, and a robust wine list and cocktail offerings. Or come for breakfast and brunch in this elegant setting to enjoy an opulent omelet or French toast.

5. Makers Alley

For something casual and cool, stop by Makers Alley, where the indoor-outdoor setting boasts a beer garden and Airstream-set kitchen. Expect more than two dozen beers on tap and a menu filled with pub-style favorites with a twist, such as chicken ranch nachos and surf and turf quesadillas.

Need More?

Need more tips on where to go and what to experience while in Wilmington, Delaware? If you’re still planning what to do and where to stay while you're in the region, you can find top recommendations in the Wilmington, Delaware, and the Brandywine Valley Discovery Map guide, available both digitally and in print.